10 Automotive Maintenance Tips Every Driver Should Know

Keeping up with auto maintenance will prolong the life of your vehicle and reduce the number of problems along the way. Although some items on your automotive maintenance schedule may require a visit to your local Macon service center, the good news is that many key car care tips can be carried out at home!

Not sure where to start? Our list of 10 automotive maintenance tips is a great introduction to car care. Check it out below, and contact our service center when your car is in need of a more thorough check.

Ten Car Care Tips to Learn Right Now

1. Read the Manual: Your owner’s manual contains everything you need to know about proper inspections and how to keep your vehicle driving smoothly for longer.
2. Inspect the Vehicle: Get familiar with indicators of leaks, flat tires, and more. That way, you can schedule service to address any issues before they become bigger and more expensive to fix.
3. Check the Tires: You can easily monitor the pressure level of your tires with a tire pressure monitor tool. You should also check the depth of your tire treads to make sure that the tires are able to grip the road surface properly. Insert a penny into the tire tread, with Lincoln’s head going in first. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head with the penny touching the bottom of the tread groove, the tires are too worn and need to be replaced.
4. Check the Oil Level: Engine oil lubricates moving parts in the engine to prevent friction and regulate the engine temperature. Every Robins Air Force Base driver should know how to check the level and condition of the oil. If the oil is dirty or full of debris, it’s time for an oil change.
5. Check the Coolant: Your owner’s manual can tell you where to find the coolant reservoir in your vehicle. Make sure the coolant reaches the level marked on the reservoir.
6. Inspect the Engine Air Filter: Your vehicle’s engine air filter needs to be replaced on a regular basis. This check is part of your automotive maintenance schedule, but the filter can become clogged prematurely if you do a lot of off-roading or driving in dusty areas. 
7. Use the Right Fuel: Your vehicle has a manufacturer-recommended octane rating. Make a note of which fuel type is recommended in your owner’s manual.
8. Check the Lights: Take a moment to check that all interior and exterior lights on your vehicle are working.
9. Inspect the Windshield Wipers:
10. Don’t wait until you’re caught driving in a downpour to find out that your windshield wipers need to be replaced! Check them on a regular basis at home.
11. Follow Your Automotive Maintenance Schedule: Your manufacturer recommends specific service intervals for your vehicle. Following it as closely as you can is the most effective way to avoid unexpected breakdowns on the road in Byron.

Contact Five Star Chevrolet for More Automotive Maintenance Tips

No matter what topic you’d like to learn more about, our seasoned service experts are here to help! Contact us for additional car care tips and truck maintenance essentials. If you’re ready to schedule service today at our dealership in Warner Robins, be sure to check out our current service specials first.